Natural Supports

Natural supports are the unpaid people in our lives who are there when we need them. They are our family members, friends, neighbors, co-workers and members of our faith communities. A natural support may develop naturally from a shared interest. When that relationship begins for a person with an intellectual or developmental disability, it leads to more inclusivity in the community. A natural support can also be described as a mentor in a work setting who can guide and support someone when a paid job coach is unavailable.

Often, natural supports can be facilitated by a paid Direct Support Professional by assisting the person with a disability to volunteer, join clubs, participate in community events, or taking classes.